Going For A Stroll? Lace Up With The 10 Best Walking Shoes for Women

Previously rated best overall by the Good Housekeeping Institute, the Asics Gel Quantum scores high in areas of support, cushioning, fit, and stability. Not only that, it also earned the stamp of approval from two expert doctors. Flat footers, take note⁠—this model is ideal for you.

Customer review: “The most comfortable sneakers I’ve had in my many years of wearing ASICS. I see myself purchasing these again in the future!”

If you’re looking for something a little less sneaker-like and a little more stylish, these Skechers slip-ons are a sight for sore eyes—or sore feet. Customers report that the cooling gel and plush footbed make these feel perfectly worn from the very first time you unbox them. They’re also machine washable and have a wide toe box, making them great for wide feet.

Customer review: “Healing from a thigh strain, I needed shoes for an upcoming trip to New York City. Walking over 5 miles daily, I never once felt my feet hurting or even fatigued. Needless to say, I am very pleased with how these shoes performed.”

Teva has a legion of fans who swear by its sandals. Seriously, the brand’s following borders on cult-like, but it’s easy to see why they’re so beloved. The shoes are meant to carry you through all of your activities, from walking city streets to snorkeling in coral reefs. Don’t let the sandal style fool you, it offers ample support with great traction, and the straps hold your foot securely in place.

Customer review: “These are the greatest, most comfortable shoes I’ve ever bought. I bought them for a trip to Hawaii and they exceeded every expectation for every terrain needed.”

The Rykä Devotion Plus 3 was rated best all-day in 2023’s tests at the Good Housekeeping Institute. Because women’s feet are different than men’s (the musculature and tapering of the heel are actually different), these walking shoes cater to a women’s foot with extra support around the arch and heel.

Customer review: “These came in the mail this week and I’m in love already! Every pressure point feels like it’s being supported by individual pillows inside the sole. The fit is true to size, and they are so pretty!”

Let’s be honest, the sneakers that suit your feet are not always the sneakers that suit your style. In fact, they rarely are, which is why Allbirds have become so popular. The sustainable brand’s designs are versatile and stylish while maintaining maximum comfort. Plus, they’re machine washable, which is always a bonus for shoes that you intend to get a lot of use out of. For these reasons, testers voted this shoe best for travel.

Customer review: “Heard good things about this brand while looking for eco-friendly and sustainable shoe options, but wasn’t sure what to expect. They’ve worked out great so far! Good fit, comfy, and work well at my job that keeps me on my feet most of the day.”

ELLE’s own deputy editor, Kayla Adler, swears by this New Balance sneaker, calling it her “tried and true long-distance walking shoe.” Her favorite part? The “squishy” sole that makes it feel like she’s walking on a cloud rather than pavement.

Customer review: “The New Balance 11’s fit perfectly and are very comfortable. I needed a good pair of walking shoes, and these shoes fit the need.”

Although flat feet and high arches are opposite, both foot types require solid arch support. Kuru’s Atom sneaker is an excellent pick for anyone looking to improve their posture or those dealing with plantar fasciitis, wide feet, or bunions.

Customer review: “They’re lifesaving! I have a severe case of Plantar fasciitis...I searched the web for shoes and came across these. I was using crutches to take any weight off my feet, but after I received these shoes, I was walking again without help. I still have pain in my toe pad area and maybe they aren’t broken in yet, but WOW, thank you for making a great product to help us all get back on our feet!”

If you like Balenciagas, you know, the ones that look like socks, then you just might fall in love with these top-rated Amazon walking shoes. They’re slip-on yet non-slip, breathable, and have enough room to accommodate orthotic inserts. Happy customers say they’re a great value and that they outperform similar name brand sneakers that run for twice the price.

What people are saying: “These shoes are so comfortable! I wore these when I went on a trip and it was nice being able to slip them on and off for TSA! Also great for all the walking I had to do in the airport.”

Maybe you’re not looking for a sneaker at all. If that’s the case, direct your attention to Oofos. These cloud-like slides are recommended for marathon runners to give their feet a rest from running sneakers. They have cushioned arch support and come in a variety of amazing colors, but their real superpower? Shock absorption that reduces stress on your joints (plus the ultimate superpower: machine washability).

Customer review: “Love these. Can’t wait to put them on when I get home after work!”

In Women’s Health’s 2021 Sneaker Awards, this shoe won first place for all-day comfort. The DailyFit is made with cushioning engineered to “cradle” your arch.

Customer review: “These are wonderful! They go on easily and are very, very comfortable. I wore them the entire day the very first time I put them on, and that never happens! I am so happy I made the decision to try these; I highly recommend!”